English Elm (Ulmus procera) has a history of traditional use in treating minor wounds such as scratches and abrasions, primarily in European folk medicine. The inner bark of various elm species, particularly Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), has been more widely documented for its mucilaginous properties, which are believed to soothe and protect damaged skin when applied topically. While English Elm is sometimes mentioned alongside Slippery Elm in traditional herbals, specific documentation of Ulmus procera for wounds is limited and often conflated with the better-studied Slippery Elm.

There is minimal scientific evidence supporting the use of English Elm specifically for scratches and abrasions. Most references are anecdotal or stem from historical herbal texts that do not distinguish clearly between elm species. The mucilage in the bark may provide a protective barrier and mild anti-inflammatory effect, which could explain the traditional use. However, clinical studies or robust scientific validation are lacking.

In summary, the use of English Elm for scratches and abrasions is based primarily on tradition, with a low level of evidence and little modern scientific investigation specific to this species.